Cherubini's Médée (Medea)

Eclipsed in popularity for decades by its Italian translation, the original French libretto to Cherubini's masterpiece has recently found renewed favor with opera companies around the world. An eclectic vision of Médée, an opéra comique in three acts with both spoken dialogue and arias, is presented here by the visionary stage director Krzysztof Warlikowski. Atop a narrative framework set in Ancient Greece and inspired by the famous tragedy of Euripedes, 1960s-era videos, music, and costumes flesh out a set of strikingly contemporary characters on the Brussels stage.

The impeccable interpretation of the score by Les Talens Lyriques, under the baton of Christophe Rousset, nonetheless keeps us firmly ensconced in the beguiling musical ambiance envisioned by Cherubini. The expressive Nadja Michael shines in the title role, as does Kurt Streit playing Jason, newly back from his quest for the golden fleece. The Greek hero, who spurned Medea's advances during his return trip home, falls in love with Dircé, daughter of King Creon. Their wedding preparations are going well and the royal subjects are rejoicing—but nobody is prepared for the return of the cruel Medea, who has vowed to exact vengeance on her erstwhile lover and all those he holds dear...